WINCHENDON—Following the heavy rains of the last few weeks, the Dennison recreation area will be closed for the near future in anticipation of flooding.

According to information provided by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the day-use picnic area, beach and campground at Lake Dennison was closed on July 12 and will remain so for approximately two weeks.

The closure is due to the higher than normal water levels at Birch Hill Dam caused by recent heavy rainstorms. These storms have devastated area farmers and caused damage to bridges and roads. The dam area and Tully Lake have also been closed due to flooding conditions.

The extra water at Birch Hill Dam has been held back in order to not release too much into the river and cause flooding downhill. The dam is located on the Millers River and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).

“The day use area is expected to reopen after two weeks, however, this timeline could change based on the USACE operations at the dam, as well as any assessments and repairs of damage caused by the flooding,” the statement from DCR read.

Crews from DCR are moving picnic tables, porta potties and other equipment to limit damage to the structures. DCR will continue to monitor the water levels of Lake Dennison and once any flooding has receded, will assess damage, make repairs and reopen the day-use area and campground.

Construction of the Birch Hill Dam in Royalston began in 1940 to prevent recent devastating floods from happening again. It is now the third oldest of the 32 flood control dams in New England,. Birch Hill is one of five dams which are part of the Lower Connecticut River Basin. The others include the Barre Falls, Knightville, Littleville and Tully dams.

The Birch Hill Dam, along with the Tully Lake Dam, have worked with River Rat Race coordinators for the last six decades to release the water needed for the annual event.

Max Bowen can be reached at 413-930-4074 or mbowen@recorder.com.

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